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Description: Dr. Branch sits down with two of his former students, Sydney and Rhea, who are now professional counselors. They share their deeply personal journeys of becoming therapists, discussing cultural challenges, personal growth, and the transformative power of their counseling education. The conversation explores their paths from feeling uncertain and pressured by family expectations to confidently pursuing their passion for mental health. They candidly discuss their experiences in therapy, both as clients and now as professionals, and share insights about trusting intuition, setting boundaries, and finding one's authentic self. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career in counseling, struggling with cultural expectations, or seeking inspiration for personal growth.
Lifework: Rediscover Your Power
Cultural Courage
Speak your truth to family/friends about your dreamsDocument the conversation's impact
Intuition Intervention
Make one minor life decision purely based on gut feelingNo external validationJournal the journey
Boundary Boss
Set 3 clear, loving boundaries in a challenging relationshipPrioritize your authentic selfBonus: Share progress with #3ParallelschallengeEmbrace your journey, one brave step at a time.
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Gator Talk: Every Friday via Zoom at 9am PST/12pm EST Join the conversation every Friday starting today on The 3 Parallels Podcast Post Show Q&A Session called Gator Talk.
When: Every Friday
Where: Battlecat Studios (Zoom)
Zoom Link: https://alliant.zoom.us/j/4044362540
Meeting ID:404-436-2540Time: 9:00am PST/ 12:00pm EST
About Our Guest:
Rhea Chowdhary is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Associate Professional a Counselor (APCC) with a deep belief in the power of healing, identity, and intuition. Recently graduated and shaped by her cultural roots, she’s navigating the early stages of her career with heart and curiosity. She’s passionate about holding space for growth—her own and others’—and is stepping into her role with clarity and care. Outside of therapy, she finds joy in baking sweet treats and listening to music.
Sydney Herring-Alderete recently completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at CSUF and obtained her APCC and AMFT numbers. Sydney enjoys conducting qualitative research with a focus on marginalized communities (e.g., BIPOC, LGBTQ+, etc.) and plans to pursue a PhD in the future. Regarding clinical work, Sydney works from a person-centered and narrative perspective and believes clients are the experts of their own lives. Sydney values integrating intersectionality, multicultural counseling, and
mindfulness into sessions. Outside of academia, Sydney loves all things Disney, spending time with her animals (cats and dog) and loved ones, listening to music, running, baking, and watching movies.
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